Do an online research

Take the time to research your destination so you won't make impulse buys. Heavy travelers can log on to Wotif.com and Orbitz.com to research for luxurious hotel and travel packages at attractive rates. Otherwise, why not join online community bazaars such as "coupon Connection" on Flyertalk.com - where travel aficionados exchange gift cards, memberships or anything imaginable to provide each other better travel experiences.

Think out of the box to get extras

Who wouldn't love a room with a view and VIP treatment? It doesn't hurt as ask for it. Having a good personal relationship with the staff is key. So when you make your reservation, tell the reservationist that you want to make this trip special (maybe it's your anniversary, hubby's birthday, etc), and that you're hoping for a nice room as part of the celebration. Follow it up with a fax - they are more likely to comply with your request. The timing is also crucial. If you check in very late, you'll have a better change of snagging a better room. More often than not, hotels would rather fill up a suite with a guest not paying the full rate, that not filling it at all.

Opt for travel packages

It's cheaper to choose an airline or hotel chain package for a new exotic destination. Apart from not burning a hole in your pocket, you also get to visit many new city in just a few days. Another option is to go during low-peak season. You might be able to get a further discount on the low-season rate, if you ask nicely.

As you walk into Al's Steakhouse, you're transported to a time when waiters knew how to serve the customer a dining experience and not just a plate of food. It's been so long since this writer has experienced such service in a mid-priced restaurant that I expected Frank Sinatra to walk through the door.

The restaurant is a time warp back to the days of great dining, excellent service, and exceptional food. For those of you who have never experienced first class dining this is the place for you. Al's Steakhouse is a first class restaurant with mid-range prices. The restaurant accepts casual attire but to make your dining experience extra special I suggest you dress up. You'll feel like one of the Rat Pack!

Al's Steakhouse offers a full menu offering all the entrees that made the steakhouses of the sixties so entertaining. Their menu includes Seafood, Steaks tender enough to cut with a fork, and vegetables cooked to a flavorful crispness. Al's Steakhouse also offers a full wine cellar and bar. Just walking into the place entices you to ask for a Highball!

The food at Al's Steakhouse is excellent, but the tableside service is what sets it apart from other mid-priced Steakhouses. This restaurant creates a dining event that most people now only experience if they eat at a high-end restaurant. Al's offers excellent food and service with prices that rival such places as Outback and Texas Roadhouse.

Al's Steakhouse makes going out to eat a social event again and it's a place that transports you back an era where the customer was important. It's a hip place with good food, wine, and excellent service. Make sure to experience Al's Steakhouse if you're in Joliet, Illinois and tell them Frank sent you.

Arriving by train in India is even more of an occasion, and you could happily spend a month doing nothing else, whereas Delhi's Indira Ghandi Airport is like any other airport in the world, paranoid about security and mind-numbingly boring.

Travel by train is exciting, romantic, and an adventure. Some of the advantages it has over air travel are as follows:

• You get to keep your possessions with you at all times
• There are no unreasonable queues, having to show up three hours before departure
• You don't have to have a stranger run his hands all over your body before you board
• There is always something to look at through the window

There are others, but I've already convinced myself!

Some of the most exciting and adventurous routes I know of are:

• Istanbul to Aleppo (Syria), the original terminus for the Orient Express
• Delhi to Kolkota, most of it along the Ganges
• St Petersburg to Odessa on the Black Sea, via Moscow and Kiev

There are thousands more.

Check out Seat 61 for inspiration and information and let your mind run riot.

Nestled at the foot of the Alps between Eastern and Western Europe, Vienna reflects a turbulent past while boasting of a luminous future. The capital city of the once great Holy Roman Empire as well as the second capital of the notorious Nazi regime, Vienna is a city busting at the seams with history. Find below why Vienna is the place to go to enjoy history at its best.

Schönbrunn Palace 

If Queen Victoria of England was called the grandmother of Europe, then Holy Roman Empress Maria Theresia of Austria is the great-grandmother. Orchestrating marriage after marriage (including the marriage of her daughter, Marie Antoinette, to French King Louis XVI), Maria Theresia not only built the Habsburg dynasty to its greatest size, but also built it's greatest palace, Schloß Schönbrunn. It was initially inspired by Versailles, but ultimately surpassed it in size (and some say even beauty!).

Kunsthistorisches Museum 

Many great European cities have art museums and, in that regard, Vienna is no different. But the KHM, short for Kunsthistorisches Museum (English: Museum of Art History), part of the 21 museum complex “Museums Quartier,” houses some of the greatest works of art in the world. Staples of the collection include Breughel, Rembrandt, and Raphael, to name a few. Recent rotating collections have included the famous Arcimboldo, whose paintings often famously parodied Habsburg lifestyles.

Imperial Vaults 

Near the center of Vienna is the final resting place of nearly every Habsburg. These morbidly beautiful vaults contain the sarcophagi of fallen Holy Roman Emperors, their consorts, and issue. Famous Habsburgs not buried in the vaults include Marie Antoinette (beheaded in France and buried in mass grave) and the infamous Franz Ferdinand, barred from the vaults for marrying below his social class.

Arsenal 

This World War I/II museum is adjacent to Vienna's Südbahnhof, making it a little out of the way for most, but what it holds inside is well worth the trip. Along with authentic Nazi propaganda preserved from the World War II, Franz Ferdinand's car (complete with bullet holes) along with his clothing from the day he was shot are in the heart of this very Viennese museum. The trip to southern Vienna is worth it just to see these two pieces of history.

Stephansdom/St. Stephen's Cathedral 

At the very center of Vienna is this beautiful masterpiece. This church is the most famous in Vienna and contains important historical references concerning Catholicism throughout the Holy Roman Empire as well as secret meeting places for the Austrian resistance during World War II. A guided tour is an absolute must, but the right guide must be chosen or the best material will be missed.

Schatzkammer 

Located in a hidden part of the Hofburg Palace, the Schatzkammer holds the Holy Roman Empire's most sacred jewels. Among the collection are Charlemagne's original crown (he was the first Holy Roman Emperor), the Holy Lance, and the bed Napoleon's son was born in. Though not as visited as one might think due to its location, this is the absolute best historical destination in all of Vienna. It's also centrally located (within the Hofburg complex).

So whether you're in Vienna for business or pleasure, there's no excuse not learn about one of Europe's most important family dynasties as Vienna is Europe's Best Historical Destination.

First, there are the usual airline carriers. They are fast, safe, and reliable. But they are also pricey and may not always be an option. The second choice would be to go with a budget airline, but their reliability is often in question and in order to get the best deal you may have to fly on dates that do not cohere with your long anticipated travel plans. Fortunately, there are two other very good options to keep your plans afloat without sinking your wallet.

Trains

Fast, safe, and often less expensive than traditional airline carriers trains are how Europeans travel within Europe - and who better to learn from than Europeans themselves? Trains are a great option because not only do they provide an affordable way between almost all cities, but they run more frequently than planes and afford you the opportunity to see more of the countries you are visiting. In fact, an entire trip can revolve around a train trip. Perhaps you wish to retrace the path of the Orient Express. By train it's easy to get off at any stop and stay for a few hours, then hop on the next train to wherever you were going. Non-reserved tickets can be purchased for almost all trains giving the bearer an option of several months within which to travel. The flexibility and affordability are hard to beat!

So why chose anything other than trains for travel within Europe? Well, when trains are an option, you shouldn't! But sometimes towns are too small or too remote for train stations. In that case, take the bus!

Bus 

Often regarded as unsafe travel in Eastern European countries, busses - minibuses included - are safe ways to travel to areas where trains don't go. Busses are ultra affordable and occasionally good alternatives to trains when traveling on a really tight budget. Busses run very frequently and offer smooth traveling - most busses are well designed for comfort, even during extended trips. In fact, many conclude on the end of their bus journey that even Polish minibuses are superior to the Greyhound services available in the United States! The one drawback to busses is that bus drivers rarely speak English and stops are usually announced only in the native language so riding prepared is a must!

For great places to travel by train or bus within Europe check out this list of undiscovered travel destinations.

Whether by plane, train, or bus, happy travels!

Without further ado, here is the list:

1. Krakow, Poland

   Situated in south eastern Poland (a geographic area known as Galacia), Krakow is not subjected to the harsh weather most of Poland receives. The capital of the Polish Kingdom from 1038 until 1596, Krakow contains some of Europe's most majestic churches and an impressive castle. Spared the destruction of World War II and largely spared communist development during the rule of the USSR, Krakow maintains an old world Europe feel similar to Prague or Budapest. Krakow is also an hour by train or minibus from Auschwitz, the notorious Nazi concentration camp from World War II. Poland is a member of the European Union and is quite safe. Despite being a member of the EU, Poland has yet to join the Euro and is still quite affordable.

2. Budapest, Hungary

   Just three hours by train or car from the Austrian capital of Vienna, Budapest is a thriving center of culture in its own right. Budapest is well known for serving as a second and equal capital of the Austrian Empire following the Dual Compromise of 1867, but truthfully it spent equal time in the Austrian Empire and the Ottoman Empire. As a result, the influence of both cultures, though vastly different, is quite apparent. Many buildings reflect Viennese type architecture, while surrounded by Turkish baths (which are quite famous!). Having spent so much time under the rule of others Hungarians, or Magyars, are a proud people with a troubled history. Hungary is also part of the EU and not on the Euro. It, too, is relatively affordable.

3. Copenhagen, Denmark

   A well known city in Europe, Copenhagen is not as full of tourists as one might think. In fact, few enough tourists visit this city that many who do consider it “overlooked.” The established capital of a thriving, if small, western European country, Copenhagen is definitely worth a visit. Danish bread is particularly well regarded throughout Europe and there is no shortage of it here in the capital. The city is also Europe's most cyclist friendly, with cycle lanes that parallel main roads for maximum access. Copenhagen is also conveniently located to northern Germany (also beautiful) and Malmö, Sweden is just across the bridge. For its beauty, as well as its proximity to other great spots in Europe, Copenhagen is a must. Copenhagen is in the EU and has voted by referendum not to adopt the Euro. Despite this, prices in Denmark are quite high (as is true of all of Scandinavia). Copenhagen is less expensive than Stockholm and Oslo.

4. Istanbul, Turkey

   While it is true half the city lies in Asia, the old town, or Sultan Ahmet as it is called, is located entirely on the European side. Located in the political hotbed Middle East, Turkey is a surprisingly safe and out-of-this-world friendly country. Though it borders countries such as Iraq and Iran, Turkey is astonishingly democratic and very western. Turkey is the only secular Muslim country in the world. Furthermore, Turks, proud of their history and eager to tell their part of the story, have done a fantastic job preserving Ottoman palaces and relics. From the Hagia Sophia to Topkapi Palace, Istanbul is sure to please and educate. Though not a member of the EU, customs is a simple process and visas are available at all entry points (by train, car, or plane) for a fee of $20 U.S.

5. Istria, Croatia

   Located on a peninsula to the north of its more famous relative, the Dalmatian Coast, the Istrian Peninsula is equally beautiful and less touristy. Begin your stay in Poreč, located only an hour south from Trieste, Italy. This town of 9,000 is easily accessible by car or bus and customs through Slovenia into Croatia are a breeze. Visit Vrsar and Rovinj on day trips, but be sure to be back in Poreč for every dinner, as Croatian and Italian cuisine are on display each night in some of Europe's finest restaurants. Fresh fish and other seafood are available in small markets around town and they sell only the current day's catch. Don't forget a boat cruise around the Adriatic like only Croatian tour guides can provide! In short, Istria provides all the beauty of the Mediterranean without being overrun by unappreciative visitors. But hurry, Europe's best kept secret is about to get out! Like Turkey, Croatia is not a member of the EU, but it is a candidate and should be admitted by 2009. No visa is required for U.S. citizens.

One final note: I have traveled extensively throughout Europe and have visited each of the aforementioned destinations. All of this advice is first hand information and comments will be quickly answered.

There is so much to see and do in Paris, it's difficult to know where to start. Apart from all the sights, be sure to factor in people-watching time in one of the city's numerous cafes.

Sights and Culture

Remember the tragic story of the hunchback of Notre Dame? Well, here's a chance to see where the story all started. The church of Notre Dame has an incredible history - built in the 12th century, it is one of the oldest buildings in Paris and sits on the banks of the River Seine. It's the perfect place to spend a sunny Sunday afternoon before strolling over the bridge to while away the hours in a cosy café.

A trip to Paris wouldn't be complete without experiencing the city's most famous landmark, the Eiffel Tower. An impressive 1,051m high, take a lift to the top for a truly wondrous view of the city. But be sure to take a jacket or shawl with you - it can get pretty breezy at the top of the tower!

Music fans will want to visit Pere Lachaise, the cemetery where famed rock star Jim Morrison was laid to rest. You can hire a buggy to take you up to his shrine which is often overrun with Doors fans.

Shopping

Galeries Lafayette is a brilliant department store with everything from designer labels to their own very reasonably priced and trendy labels all under one roof. But when in France, the thing you really want to look for is lingerie - there's a fantastic range here you will want to snap up. Plus check out the mouthwatering cosmetics section.

Nightlife

If clubbing is your thing, Paris is packed with super cool places to go. But be warned, it's not cheap. Les Bains is still the city's most famous hotspot where models and fashionistas all go to hang out. If you want to get past the snooty guys on the door, make sure you dress to impress.

Eating

As you'd expect from the country where gastronomy was born, there's a wealth of places to eat and drink in Paris. I've visited the city many times and taken pot luck and it's almost impossible to have a bad dining experience - unless you happen to be vegan. Take a stroll around Forum des Halles, a pedestrian-only area crammed full of interesting boutiques. Take your pick of cafes and restaurants for a truly French experience. Choose an outside table, sit back and pretend you're in a movie. You can sit for hours with a chocolat chaud or beer in most places and you won't be hassled by the waiters.

Anyway, one of the mums started to talk about her impending holiday. We all began to ask her about it… where she was going, when she was going, how long she was going for, etc. She told us that she was going to be going away on a cruise with her husband - without the kids - and it will be the first time that she has ever left them. It will also be the first holiday that she has had on her own with her husband for 10 years.

“It will be so romantic for you then,” my sister told her, “just like the Titanic.”

Everybody stared at my sister and our friend said, “I hope not. The Titanic sank!”

My sister had been thinking about the romantic side of the film and not what happened to the boat!

Centrella Inn

Located near Lover's Point in Monterey, California, the Centrella Inn is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. This award winning bed and breakfast began in 1889 as the Centrella Cottage. Recently remodeled as an elegant Victorian Bed and Breakfast, the Centrella Inn will greet you with a chilled bottle of champagne and a bouquet of flowers in your room. In the morning you will be served a full hot buffet breakfast. For more information please go to Centrella Inn.

Grand Colonial

If you like long walks on white sandy beaches or a gentle ocean breeze while watching the sunset, then come to The Grande Colonial in beautiful La Jolla, California. With a European design, these elegant guest rooms overlooking the village of La Jolla offer convenient access to local boutiques and art galleries. Your visit will include an Ocean-View Suite, a chilled bottle of champagne and chocolate-dipped strawberries or hand-crafted truffles in your room when you arrive. You also receive a three-course dinner and breakfast for two each morning. For rates and reservations please go to Grand Colonial.

Windsor

For the ultimate romantic getaway, nothing beats the California Wine Country of Sonoma. Located in the heart of Sonoma is the gorgeous Holiday Inn Express Windsor. Here you can experience hot air balloon rides, wine country day spas, full body Swedish massages and rejuvenating aromatherapy facials. And don't forget those famous Sonoma Wine Tasting Rooms. For more information please visit Holiday Inn Express: Windsor.

Those Who Cook Together Stay Together

Cook up the perfect meal at The Wooden Spoon (5047 N. Clark; 773-293-3190). Try their special couples cooking class where you'll prepare the meal together and share the romantic meal afterwards. Talk about some real bonding time. On the menu is Clams Casino, Osso Bucco with Red Wine Cabbage and Oven-Roasted Root Vegetables and Mango Soufflé with Tropical Fruit Coulis. You'll score huge points for this one (hint, hint guys).

Wine Me, Dine Me

If you're really looking to impress, take that special person to The Signature Room (875 N. Michigan Ave.; 312-878-9596). Located on the 95th floor of the Hancock Building, you'll let them know that they are as special as their surroundings. Say “I love you” Italian style at Via Due Enoteca (1417 W. Fullerton Ave; 773-348-9463). Enjoy their fabulous wine bar and share some spaghetti and you'll both be screaming “Mama Mia.” Café Iberico (739 N. Lasalle Dr; 312-573-1510) will please your palate. Most of their dishes are small and meant to share. Feed your dearest dishes like Champinones A La Plancha; Grilled mushrooms with garlic and olive oil and Calamares A La Plancha; Grilled squid with olive oil, garlic and lemon juice and you'll be closer than ever.

Sky Write Your Love

The Schaumburg Airport, just a short drive from the city offers scenic tours of Chicago. This one will really surprise them. It's a little pricey ($262 per couple) but it will be worth every penny when you see the look on their face when they find out they will be taking a helicopter tour of Chicago. You'll see the Loop in a way you've never seen it before (905 W. Irving Park Rd, Schaumburg; 877-474-3127).

Ride Old Fashioned Style

Chicago is a beautiful city. What better way to see it than by taking a horse and carriage ride with your loved one. JC Cutter's (1-888-664-6014) offers 30 minute, 45 minute and one hour tours. Prices range from $40-$100. It doesn't matter how long you've been with your significant other; it'll be perfect as you stroll through the city in a classy carriage and visit the best highlights of downtown Chicago such as Buckingham Fountain, Grant Park and fabulous lakefront views. This could be a great way to propose and something you'll never forget.

Escape on a Tropical Getaway

Stop by the trendy Lincoln Park Massage Spa (630 W Webster; 773-296-6300) and have a sweet massage with your sweetie. Upon entering you'll be pampered with a warming herbal neck wrap, flavored tea of your choice and a warming towel to refresh your hands. You may not have the time to take a tropical vacation but you'll sure feel like your on one when you step into one of their themed rooms and feel like your laying on the beach in the Caribbean as you hear the tranquil sound of waves softly crashing. Choose from massages like Swedish, deep tissue, sports, Thai and hot stone therapy. You'll both be oohing and aahing after this splendid treat.

Call it a Night

Early to Bed (5232 N. Sheridan Rd; 773-271-1219) offers everything you can think of that will make you and your darling want to hit the hay as soon as possible. Here you will find great treasures that will make your evening extra special. From fun toys to sweet smelling massage oils, you'll be sure to score. As a bonus, this classy shop offers workshops on how-to be a better flirter and teaches couples tickling techniques.

Sparkle and Shimmer

Everyone knows that the ladies love jewelry. Francesca's (2012 N. Halsted Ave; 773- 244-4075) offers reasonably priced twinkling jewelry that's sure to please. Choose from cute earrings, bracelets and necklaces. They also have a great line of clothing and accessories to match. You can't go wrong with this perky boutique. Arts and Artisans (321 N. Michigan Ave; 312-855-9220) is an elegant shop to find the perfect gift for him or her. For her, you might choose their Belladonna perfume bottle adorned with brightly colored flowers. And for him you might consider their beautifully crafted jewelry chest made of natural woods. Or make it a gift you can share together and pick up some of their beautiful stemware. Macy's (111 N. State St; 312-781-5000) is a classic store with endless ideas. Whether it's jewelry, fragrance or candy you're looking for, you can definitely make this a one stop shop.

For the Thrill Seekers

Okay, so you want something a little more exciting? Something that will literally make your heart beat faster? Oldtown Fitplex (1235 N. LaSalle; 312-640-1235) will give you daredevils a boost of excitement. Try indoor rock climbing on any of their challenging routes. You and your loved one will take your relationship to new heights. Private lessons start at $35. Get a great work out at Fleetwood Skating Rink (7321 W. Archer Ave; 708-458-0300) as you and your skate date go back in time and roll around the rink to some groovy tunes and hip fluorescent lights.
Phone: 312-541-1951